trying to find out about my grandfather...WWII Jap prisoner of war?

[catwalk3]

Hi,  I am really hoping that somebody can help.  My deceased Grandfather told stories when we were children of his time in the Merchant Navy and how he escaped a Japanese Prisoner of War Camp!  I have almost no information to go on other than his name; James John DICKENSON.  Born 23rd March 1905 in Sculcoates, Yorkshire.  How can I even find out if he was in the Merchant Navy?  We were never allowed to talk about him to anybody and I know that he did take on somebody else's dead identity later in life!  It's all very strange.  How can I find out any information as I have no living relatives to ask.  Any help we would be so appreciated.  Fingers crossed and thank you.

[neil1821]

National Archives is where you need to be looking.
These records are where you should start:
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/looking-for-person/britishpowsecondworldwar.htm

[jennshaw]

Check out this site:

I found my grandfathers number and regiment on this:

http://www.powtaiwan.org/index.html

BR

Jen

[catwalk3]

Hi,

Thank you.  Unfortunately I was unable to locate my Grandad on the website.

Dawn

[Mike-in-Hull]

Hi Dawn.

I'm not sure you'll see this, but James John Dickenson was my great uncle. I'm currently researching that side of my family. I've gotten as far as finding (some of) his Navy record. His service number was K62432.

Mike

[sarah]

Welcome to RootsChat Mike, although this member has not posted for 11 years the email still looks to be current, they will be notified of your reply by email.

Regards

Sarah